Non-profits in North Texas earned another opportunity to raise money as a result of the Rose Bowl's move to AT&T Stadium. Notre Dame will face Alabama in Arlington Friday afternoon.
Non-profits have been working at concessions stands since the Dallas Cowboys played at Texas Stadium in Irving. In 11 years since the team moved to Arlington, organizations have raised $22 million, and the Rose Bowl offered an extra event to raise money.
"Part of the reason they enjoy coming to the stadium is they know the time they spend here doesn't go to waste," says George Wasai, the director of food and drink for Legends at AT&T Stadium. "They'll work eight to ten hours. I'm very fortunate that we have such a great group of non-profits that have the passion for their goals."
Non-profits include Boys and Girls Club, programs for hunger relief, mental health support, elderly assistance and high school football team booster clubs.
Wasai, who designed the program, says more than 500 organizations have worked at concessions stands, and even more have asked about how to join since the start of the pandemic.
"There's so much need out there," he says. "The non-profit groups are very excited to work at AT&T Stadium, and we're very fortunate they choose us to raise funds for their organization."
Non-profit volunters work at concessions stands. Stadium employees prepare the food. Wasai says the Cowboys provide personal protective equipment.
"It takes a lot of effort, a lot of effort is going into making sure everyone who walks in the door of AT&T Stadium is okay. As soon as you walk in the stadium, you're getting your temperature checked," he says.
Legends at AT&T Stadium says each group is verified to meet criteria before participating.